The official social media accounts of the WTA made a noticeable blunder, mistakenly announcing the wrong semi-final matchups following Linda Noskova’s victory at the WTA 500 Abu Dhabi Open. The Czech player defeated Magda Linette (6-4, 6-3) and will face Ashlyn Krueger (No. 51), who stunned Leylah Fernandez.
However, the WTA’s official account incorrectly posted that Noskova would be playing 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, who is actually set to play in the other semi-final. Social media users were quick to criticize the lack of fact-checking in the official post.
Adding to the criticism, another user pointed out that Krueger had earlier been described as a “teenager” despite already being 20 years old.
“Just today alone, the WTA has called 20-year-old Ashlyn Krueger a teenager and has confused who is playing in which semi-final,” the Tennis Updates account posted. “Incredible researching here,” they added sarcastically.
Just today alone the WTA has called 20-year old Ashlyn Krueger a teenager and has confused who is playing in what Semifinal
— Tennis Updates (@TennisUpdates25) February 6, 2025
Incredible researching here. https://t.co/45B2BdK8MW
Abu Dhabi Semi-Finals Set
With the quarter-finals now complete, the Abu Dhabi Open semi-finals feature only one seeded player—none other than top seed Elena Rybakina, who aims to defend her 2024 title and claim her first trophy of the season.
The world No. 5 battled through a tough match against Ons Jabeur, winning 6-2, 4-6, 7-6[7-4] to secure her place in the semi-finals, where she will face an in-form Belinda Bencic. The Swiss Olympic gold medallist has been in excellent form, boasting a 9-2 record this year, with victories over high-profile opponents such as Naomi Osaka, Jelena Ostapenko, and, most recently, former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova.
The second semi-final will see 19-year-old Noskova take on American Ashlyn Krueger, who is making her WTA 500 semi-final debut. The 20-year-old American shocked Canada’s Fernandez, and so far, 8 of her 9 matches this season have gone to three sets—including all three of her Abu Dhabi encounters.
One step closer 💪
— wta (@WTA) February 6, 2025
Linda Noskova takes the first set against Linette, bringing her closer to her first semifinal appearance in Abu Dhabi. #MubadalaAbuDhabiOpen pic.twitter.com/F26dr0a0sz
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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